How to kill yellow jackets and keep them away.
Yellow jackets are a bane to many people, particularly in the fall.
Here’s how to identify yellow jackets, get rid of them, and prevent them.
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How To Identify Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are actually atype of wasp, hailing from the generaVespulaandDolichovespula.
Often, they are mistaken for other types of wasps, like hornets, which have larger heads.
They are even sometimes mistaken for bees, given their similar size and color.
Yellow jackets have different behavior from bees as well.
They also forage for human food, so you’ll see them around trash cans and unattended meals.
Bees feed on flowers and nectar and fly in a sweeping motion.
Yellow jacket stingers are lance-like and have small barbs.
They are territorial and aggressive, and they will sting to defend their nest.
Their painful sting can swell and itch.
If you suddenly find yourself surrounded by an angry yellow jacket, or several, move slowly.
Thankfully, we are not completely defenseless against yellow jacket furyit is possible to kill them.
While they can be scary to some, they can be beneficial to have around since they eat mosquitoes.
If cold weather is approaching, let the colony die off naturally.
There are safer and easier remedies.
Vinegar can help reduce itching, and a paste ofbaking sodaand water helps neutralize the venom.
Professionals will treat your property with pesticides and survey your property to check for new nests.
National Park Service.Your Safety Around Yellow Jackets.
American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.Insect Sting Allergies.
